The outspoken England head coach ditched his usual mind games this week for a more diplomatic approach in the build-up to today's Six Nations showdown with the Scots at BT Murrayfield.

A fortnight after questioning Wales' Rhys Patchell's "bottle" for the big occasion, the Australian has taken a different tack when discussing Dark Blues playmaker Finn Russell.

His charm offensive included dubbing the Glasgow stand-off a "world-class" operator while he even compared the style of Gregor Townsend's team to the All Blacks'.

But those warm words do not wash with Barclay.

"Eddie loves to play these games and the media love it too," said the Scotland captain. "It gives an interesting approach to you guys and I think it's great for the game. It gives different headlines and people love reading it.

"But we don't take much notice. I don't even think there are newspapers in our hotel. Some guys are going to see it online but as captain it's not something I'm paying attention to.

"England are one of the best teams in the world, their record is fantastic. They come here as massive favourites, in my opinion. They are a quality side with quality players, British Lions throughout - it's a big challenge for us to stop them."